Zelensky says Ukraine ready for any format talks, expects US role

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Kyiv is prepared to take part in peace negotiations in any format and expects the United States to play an active role. He noted that Ukraine maintains daily contact with U.S. officials, including special envoy for the Middle East Steve Whitcomb and senior adviser Jared Kushner, and that discussions in Washington have explored new conditions for a diplomatic process.

Zelensky added that Ukrainian officials such as chief of military intelligence Kirill Budanov, former defence minister Rustem Umerov, MP David Arahamiya and acting foreign minister Andriy Sybiga have presented reports on the negotiation track and Moscow’s position. He also mentioned that Kyiv is seeking support from Gulf states. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington intends to increase its efforts to achieve a peaceful settlement of the conflict.